In orchestrating the majority of my home automation, I rely on the seamless integration of Node-RED within my Home Assistant environment. This versatile platform boasts a visually intuitive interface, streamlining the creation of intricate automation flows. Its drag-and-drop functionality empowers users, regardless of their programming expertise, to effortlessly interconnect various devices, sensors, and services—facilitating the automation of tasks and processes throughout their smart homes. For those eager to delve deeper, I highly recommend exploring a beginner's tutorial to unlock the full potential of Node-RED.
Within the various rooms of our home, motion or presence sensors are ubiquitous. Beyond their role in bolstering security, these sensors are harnessed to autonomously illuminate spaces such as the bathroom, stairs, and basement, exclusively in darkness, and extinguish the lights when the area is unoccupied.
Tailoring the technology to the specific requirements of each room or zone is paramount. In areas conducive to limited movement, such as sitting or lounging spaces, presence detection takes precedence. Conversely, locations demanding immediate responsiveness benefit from the rapid reaction time offered by motion sensors.
Flows can look quite simple in some case
Or so what more daunting to avoid false positives which could result in some unpleasantness with your family members…
The backbone of most sensors in my home relies on Zigbee technology, a subject explored in more depth in the accompanying blog. Given the integral role these protocols play in my automation and controls, I've crafted specific flows to alert me when batteries are nearing depletion or if a device fails to communicate with the coordinator as anticipated. These proactive measures ensure the seamless functioning of my smart home by preemptively addressing potential issues with Zigbee-enabled devices. For a deeper understanding of the protocols in action and their impact on home automation, I encourage delving into the referenced blog.
In this use case, my wife and I get a message, when the Tesla is below 250 km but only when it is not put to the charger.
Finally, our physical mailbox is located approx 15 meters from our home. I wanted a way to check mail arrived. If so, I get a message and if I forget to get it, I get a reminder till I do.
As you already notice, the possibilities are endless…
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